Master Thesis - Flexibility Potentials in Buildings Based on Automated Model Generation

At the Institute of Energy and Climate Research - Energy Systems Engineering (IEK-10) we focus on the optimal design and operation of integrated, decentralized energy systems with a high share of renewable energy. Computer simulation and numerical optimization are our essential tools to arrive at efficient, reliable, and cost-effective solutions. We contribute both to the development of mathematical models and to the development of improved simulation methods and optimization algorithms. Our methods and software-tools are validated against operating data of real systems. Furthermore, we conduct comprehensive case studies in order to test and further improve the scalability and the performance of our models and algorithms. Specially adapted methods and codes enable us to exploit the potential of high-performance computing with the aim of solving particularly large and complex problems.

Your Job:

The building sector offers a large potential for energy savings and the realization of the climate and energy consumption goals defined by Germany and the EU. Using building simulation models, the energy consumption during operation can be simulated from different angles. Based on a toolchain, which automatically generates building Modelica models based on an intuitive language for room descriptions developed at the institute, campus building plans and measurement data, simulation should be conducted with respect to different aspects that are playing an ever greater role in future buildings. In this work, the flexibility potential of buildings should be analyzed, more specifically, the potential to reduce or shift loads. The motivation results from an increasing share of renewable energy sources (e.g., solar and wind energy) and the resulting stress on the electrical grid. Building energy systems as large energy consumers (and producers) incorporate several different technologies for load shifting, as well as storage capabilities (actively within thermal and electrical storage, passively within the building thermal mass) and flexibility potentials within the comfort ranges (e.g., range of the indoor air temperature, which is comfortable for the user). Tools for conducting the work are Python for implementation of the analysis tools and partly the simulation software Dymola for simulation and modeling of the Modelica building models.

Your tasks in detail:

• Simulation and analysis of the flexibility potential of buildings, more specifically, the potential to reduce or shift loads to relieve stress from the electrical grid caused by an increasing share of volatile renewable energy sources
• Investigation of building energy systems as large energy consumers (and producers), which incorporate several different technologies for load shifting, as well as storage capabilities (actively within thermal and electrical storage, passively within the building thermal mass) and flexibility potentials within the comfort ranges (e.g., range of the indoor air temperature, which is comfortable for the user)
• Tools are Python for implementation of the analysis tools and partly the simulation software Dymola for simulation and modeling of the Modelica building models
• Tools for conducting the work are Python for implementation of the analysis tools and partly the simulation software Dymola for simulation and modeling of the Modelica building models

Your Profile:

• Master studies in the field of of mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, process engineering, informatics and mathematics or similar
• Good knowledge of a programming language, preferably Python and Modelica
• Interest in topics of energy engineering and building simulation
• Knowledge in one of the fields of modeling or control of technical systems beneficial
• Independent working style and good analytical skills
• Willingness to familiarize yourself with new methods
• Reliable and conscientious style of working
• Fluent in English (spoken and written)

Our Offer:

We work on the very latest issues that impact our society and are offering you the chance to actively help in shaping the change! We support you in your work with:

• Highly motivated scientists of different subject areas working together
• Interdisciplinary work combining physics, mathematics, computer science, and engineering
• Intensive supervision by one or more experienced and helpful colleague(s)
• Friendly and welcoming work environment
• A diverse and highly motivated working group of international character within one of the largest research institutions in Europe
• An excellent scientific and technical infrastructure
• Excellent technical equipment to successfully work from home
• Flexible working hours as well as a reasonable remuneration

We welcome applications from people with diverse backgrounds, e.g. in terms of age, gender, disability, sexual orientation / identity, and social, ethnic and religious origin. A diverse and inclusive working environment with equal opportunities in which everyone can realize their potential is important to us.